Fighting To Preserve The Future Of Youthful Offenders
If your child has been charged with a crime, they need competent and diligent representation that is prepared to advise them of their rights and represent them in a court of law. Criminal charges can have devastating consequences on adolescents and their families, which is why Louis Mussari is committed to ensuring that juvenile cases remain in the juvenile justice system.
Minors may not be able to fully comprehend the consequences of their actions and how these situations may impact their future, which is why they need to be represented by an experienced attorney.
Many juvenile offenders are encouraged to take a plea, depending on their case. However, this may not be the appropriate decision for every scenario. Louis is prepared and experienced to fight for your child in court or negotiate a plea when necessary.
Louis Mussari has extensive Jury Trial experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. This experience gives him a unique qualification to represent clients and makes him a knowledgeable and confident litigator. Louis served in the Erie County District Attorney’s office for 10 years and handled numerous cases that involve adolescent offenders. Offenses he has handled include:
- Drug use and selling drugs
- Theft and burglary
- Assault and violent crimes
- Carjacking or robbery
- Rape and sexual offenses
- Underage DUI
- Weapon offenses
In the State of New York, there are three categories of youths who are accused of committing crimes. These categories include Juvenile Delinquent, Juvenile Offender, and Youthful Offender. A juvenile delinquent is a child between the ages of 7 and 16 who have been accused of a felony or misdemeanor. These cases are handled in Family Court.
A juvenile offender is a child who is between the ages of 13 and 18 and has committed a serious or violent felony. These cases are handled in adult criminal court unless it is determined to be appropriately moved to Family Court.
If it is moved to Family Court, the case is treated as a juvenile delinquency matter. If the case stays in criminal court, the individual is subjected to adult penalties and a criminal record, unless youthful offender status is granted.
A youthful offender is an individual who is between 16 and 18 years old and has committed a criminal offense. Youthful offender status provides an opportunity for reduced sentencing or avoidance of a criminal record. An individual between the age of 13 and 17 who faces trial in adult criminal court as a juvenile offender may be eligible for youthful offender status.
An additional category is an adolescent offender. An adolescent offender is a 16 or 17-year-old individual who has committed a felony. These cases are also heard in the Youth Part of the Supreme or County Court and may be transferred to Family Court. If the case stays in the Youth Part of the Supreme or County Court, the individual is treated as an adult, and their age will be considered during sentencing.
Adolescents charged with a crime require a dedicated and skilled advocate to fight for them and act in their best interests. Louis Mussari is committed to fighting for your child as well as ensuring their rights will be protected in a court of law, no matter the charge.
Juvenile Offenses – Legal Overview
The tabs below contain some additional legal information on juvenile offenses in the State of New York.
- Statutes
- Possible Penalties
- Defense Strategies
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand that facing juvenile crime charges can be an overwhelming experience for both the young individual and their family. Our extensive knowledge of juvenile crime statutes allows us to navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your child’s rights are protected and aiming for the most favorable outcome. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation, tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
Note: Statutes and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we recognize the emotional toll that juvenile crime charges can take on a family, and we’re here to help you through this challenging time. With years of experience in handling juvenile crime cases, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal maze, advocating for your child’s rights and working diligently to secure the best possible outcome. Our client-focused approach ensures that you receive personalized, compassionate legal counsel every step of the way.
- Monetary fines for parents
- Court costs for parents
- Counseling for minors
- Apology letters written by the minor
- Citations on the juvenile record
- Diversionary programs involving electronic monitoring
Note: Penalties and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the gravity of juvenile crime charges and the impact they can have on your child’s future. Our specialized defense strategies in juvenile crime cases are designed to protect your child’s rights while aiming for reduced charges or even case dismissal. We are committed to working closely with you to develop a defense plan that is tailored to the unique circumstances of your child’s case, ensuring the most favorable outcome possible.
Lack of Evidence
The defense can challenge the evidence presented, including the credibility of witnesses and the legality of searches that produced evidence.
Mistaken Identity
Presenting alibis, eyewitness testimony, or other evidence to prove that the minor was not the perpetrator.
Self-Defense
Demonstrating that the minor acted in self-defense and had a reasonable belief that they were in imminent danger.
Entrapment
Proving that the minor was coerced or induced into committing the crime.
Consent
Providing evidence that the act was consensual, although this is a complex area given age-of-consent laws.
Mental Incapacity or Insanity
Providing psychological evaluations and expert testimony to prove the minor’s mental state.
Challenging the Legality of the Arrest
If the arrest or search was illegal, any evidence obtained could be inadmissible in court.
Plea Bargaining
Negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or lighter sentencing in exchange for a guilty plea.
Note: Defense strategies and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand that facing juvenile crime charges can be an overwhelming experience for both the young individual and their family. Our extensive knowledge of juvenile crime statutes allows us to navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that your child’s rights are protected and aiming for the most favorable outcome. We are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation, tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.
Note: Statutes and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we recognize the emotional toll that juvenile crime charges can take on a family, and we’re here to help you through this challenging time. With years of experience in handling juvenile crime cases, we have the expertise to guide you through the legal maze, advocating for your child’s rights and working diligently to secure the best possible outcome. Our client-focused approach ensures that you receive personalized, compassionate legal counsel every step of the way.
- Monetary fines for parents
- Court costs for parents
- Counseling for minors
- Apology letters written by the minor
- Citations on the juvenile record
- Diversionary programs involving electronic monitoring
Note: Penalties and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
At the Louis C. Mussari Law Firm, we understand the gravity of juvenile crime charges and the impact they can have on your child’s future. Our specialized defense strategies in juvenile crime cases are designed to protect your child’s rights while aiming for reduced charges or even case dismissal. We are committed to working closely with you to develop a defense plan that is tailored to the unique circumstances of your child’s case, ensuring the most favorable outcome possible.
Lack of Evidence
The defense can challenge the evidence presented, including the credibility of witnesses and the legality of searches that produced evidence.
Mistaken Identity
Presenting alibis, eyewitness testimony, or other evidence to prove that the minor was not the perpetrator.
Self-Defense
Demonstrating that the minor acted in self-defense and had a reasonable belief that they were in imminent danger.
Entrapment
Proving that the minor was coerced or induced into committing the crime.
Consent
Providing evidence that the act was consensual, although this is a complex area given age-of-consent laws.
Mental Incapacity or Insanity
Providing psychological evaluations and expert testimony to prove the minor’s mental state.
Challenging the Legality of the Arrest
If the arrest or search was illegal, any evidence obtained could be inadmissible in court.
Plea Bargaining
Negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or lighter sentencing in exchange for a guilty plea.
Note: Defense strategies and legal outcomes may vary pending an in-depth review of the specifics of your case.
Ask Yourself: Can You Afford Not To Call?
The decisions you make in the next days and weeks are critical. Will you get to keep living your life or will spend time in jail, pay thousands of dollars in fines, and suffer consequences for employment, education and where you live? Make the wise choice and call Louis C. Mussari, Attorney at Law, at 716-430-2147.